ARC - Agnes Aubert's Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett

SUMMARY

Agnes is a meticulously organised, proudly Type-A woman who believes order saves lives. Especially feline ones. Running a cat shelter in 1920s Montreal, she has devoted herself entirely to rescuing strays and finding them forever homes.

When her shelter is destroyed during a violent clash between rival magicians in the streets, Agnes is forced to act fast. Winter is coming, and without shelter, the cats won’t survive. Desperate, she accepts a space that seems far too good to be true: a modest shop with a landlord who asks very few questions.

Should she worry about the magical clientele from around the world going through a basement that never seems to stay empty? No. Her focus is on the cats, not the whispered rumours of her landlord being the infamous dark magician Havelock, or the whispers of an apocalypse. Agnes couldn’t care less. At least, not until an enemy from Havelock’s past resurfaces and the shop, and more importantly, the shelter, are thrust into danger.

To protect the cats she loves, Agnes may have to set aside her social conscience and defend the very man who once tried to bring about the end of the world and who now seems determined to steal her heart.

THOUGHTS

Thank you once again, NetGalley, for this ARC. I was so excited to be accepted for this! I also want to thank Heather for creating another gem.

Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter was a magical escape and so different from Heather’s previous books. While magic was still embedded within the pages, it felt darker and more mysterious. I absolutely loved the fact that it revolves around a cat shelter, as my love for these feline cuties is immense; it was a huge highlight for me. It was also the most stressful part because every time magic was used to destroy things, cause damage, or create utter chaos, I could only think of the poor kitties.

I really loved the Studio Ghibli Howl’s Moving Castle vibe this story gave off. Especially the whole “mysterious magician” and the “transporting shop” vibes. As well as Havelock, branded as a villainous monster, was such a cool element, and added to the whole dark magician persona. I loved these aspects, and they made for a strong magical fantasy.

The cats obviously made this book! All their adorable personalities, which I enjoyed seeing throughout the book. His Majesty was perfection. The grumpy black cat who chose violence, as so many cats do. However, he really did help Agnes grieve, and I think he truly showed her that she deserves a second chance, in his own weird cat way.

My favourite character was Havelock. He was such a cool character to explore, from being the dark magician to exploring his backstory, and the strong Howl vibes he gave off. He made the story so much fun and more enjoyable to read.

Overall, I was so happy to be given early access and really enjoyed reading this book. It was a new kind of magic compared to Emily Wilde’s trilogy. I am so excited for this to be released next week and cannot wait to purchase a physical copy.